Miami man arrested, accused in investment scam

Miami, Florida – A South Florida man was arrested for his alleged role in a real estate investment scam.

A 52-year-old Marko Dejanovic represented himself as a real estate developer, investor, and lender, according to the Florida Office of Financial Regulation.

According to authorities, Dejanovic promised his victims high rates of return on investments, and that he sought money from potential investors through what officials called a social club, and by word of mouth.

He used counterfeit investment documents, letters, and emails from legitimate financial institutions, authorities said. According to a release, Dejanovic also presented his victim’s investment contracts that offered unrealistic returns.

Officials also said Dejanovic offered investments in historical Petchili Chinese bonds.

Once he obtained funds from his victims, instead of investing the money, Dejanovic used it to fund his lifestyle, according to authorities.

“It is shameful when people defraud hard-working members of our community,” said Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. “I am very proud of the partnership my Economic Crimes Unit prosecutors have with the Florida Department of Financial Services, Division of Investigative and Forensic Services, and the Office of Financial Regulation. Together, we will continue to investigate thoroughly any criminal activity by fraudsters like Marko Dejanovic and prosecute them to the furthest extent of the law.”

Due to his scheme, Dejanovic’s victims lost more than $377,000, officials said.